Barbering Schools in Illinois
Browse our directory of barbering schools in Illinois, or skip ahead to learn about the state's barbering licensing requirements and job outlook.
Browse All Barbering Schools in Illinois
For School Owners
Don't see your school listed? Want to discuss becoming a featured school in the directory? Contact us to learn more.
700 East Terra Cotta Avenue
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
657 Highgrove Place
Rockford, IL 61108
142 East Golf Road
Schaumburg, IL 60173
2828 North Clark Street
Chicago, IL 60657
7350 West 87th Street
Bridgeview, IL 60455
6458 North Sheridan Road
Chicago, IL 60626
751 East Park Avenue
Libertyville, IL 60048
5321 North Harlem Avenue
Chicago, IL 60656
5485 East State Street
Rockford, IL 61108
ABC School of Cosmetology and Nail Technology – Accredited
Lake In The Hills, IL 60156
Im Beauty School - Cosmetology, Nail Technology, Esthetics
Glenview, IL 60025
You must attend a school that meets any licensure requirements as defined by your state. Most states require that you graduate from an accredited or state-approved school.
Related Beauty Careers
Not sure this is the right fit for you? Learn more about other career options in the beauty industry. Related specializations include:
Barbering Schools Near Me
Check out the Barbering schools these cities in Illinois have to offer.
Cost of Barbering School Across IL
| Metro | Average Tuition |
|---|---|
| Rockford | $21,954 |
| Chicago | $20,221 |
| Peoria / Bloomington | $15,100 |
| Champaign / Springfield / Decatur | $12,850 |
Comparing Program Costs in IL
| Cosmetology School Costs |
|---|
| Highest range: $13,450 - $24,000 |
| Lowest range: $2,900 - $13,450 |
| Average: $18,918 |
| Barbering School Costs |
| Highest range: $18,425 - $24,000 |
| Lowest range: $12,850 - $18,425 |
| Average: $19,607 |
How to Become a Barber in Illinois
- 1,500 education hours are required to become licensed.
- You must renew your license every 2 years.
- 0 continuing education hours are required to renew your license.
- The average salary for cosmetologists in Illinois is $44,490.
- There is a predicted 8% job increase between 2021–2031 for barbers nationally.
To become a barber in Illinois, you must complete 1,500 training hours at an Illinois barber school, meet the age requirements, pass two exams, and pay several fees.
Your first step is enrolling in an Illinois barber program. These programs typically last between nine months and two years and encompass theoretical classroom knowledge and extensive hands-on training. Classes cover cutting, styling, and straight razor or old-fashioned shaving.
After completing your Illinois barber program, you must pass the state barber exam. This written and practical test evaluates your skills to help make sure you're ready to practice. After passing the state's barber exam, you should be ready to apply for your barber license through the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR). We spotlight some licensing requirements below:
Let's dig deeper into what you need to know to begin your barber career in Illinois.
What to Expect From a Barber Program in Illinois
Required to earn a barbering license
An Illinois barber program comprises 1,500 hours of training at an Illinois barber school. Illinois barber programs challenge you to gain the knowledge and skills necessary for state licensure. These programs traditionally utilize a blend of classroom instruction and hands-on learning opportunities covering topics spanning from barbering techniques to customer service. We break down what you can expect in your barber program below.
While the time it takes to complete a barber program in Illinois can vary, you can anticipate graduating in nine months to two years. Full-time students graduate more quickly, and it takes part-time learners longer to complete program requirements.
When searching for the best Illinois barber program for you, seek out programs approved by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR). These barber schools offer a state-approved curriculum with experienced instructors, quality facilities, and ample supplies for hands-on training.
Can I Apprentice as a Barber in Illinois?
No, Illinois doesn't offer an apprenticeship pathway for you to become a licensed barber.
Illinois Barber Licensing Requirements
To get your Illinois barber license, you need to finish an Illinois barber program, pass two exams, and pay licensing and testing fees.
Illinois Barber License Reciprocity
Licensed barbers outside of Illinois can apply to have their licenses transferred to Illinois through reciprocity. In short, reciprocity agreements allow licensed barbers to practice their trade in Illinois without additional training or examinations.
States with Illinois barber reciprocity are:
If you're seeking reciprocity in Illinois, you need to meet the requirements below:
If you're considering a move to Illinois, be sure to recognize that not all states have reciprocity agreements with Illinois. Additionally, be mindful that reciprocity requirements can vary dramatically between states. Some of the application requirements for those seeking reciprocity include:
Barber Specialties in Illinois
Illinois offers dual licenses between barbering and barber teaching, cosmetology, esthetics, and management.
If you are interested in tackling a barber specialization, additional education, training, and certification are typically required. As a result, the license and renewal processes can vary.
Barber License Renewal in Illinois
License renewal period
Continuing education required
In Illinois, barbers, barber instructors, and barber school licenses must be renewed biannually before July 31. You must submit your renewal application and the accompanying $25 within the month before its expiration every two years.
Barbers in Illinois are not required to complete continuing education hours to renew their licenses. But being a lifelong learner can keep you on top of your game.
Barber Salary and Projected Job Growth in Illinois
Average yearly salary for barbering in Illinois
Illinois doesn't publish its average barber salarly. But the average annual cosmetologists in Illinois is $44,490 ($21.39 per hour).
Illinois does not publish its anticipated barber growth. But, nationwide, the anumber of barber positions is expected to grow by 8% between 2021 and 2031.
Contact the Illinois State Board of Barbering
- 100 West Randolph, 9th Floor Chicago, IL 60601
- Website: Illinois Department of Professional Regulation
- Call: 1-888-473-4858
Resources for Barbers in Illinois
American Barber Association
One of the largest professional organizations for American barbers, this site contains useful, Illinois-specific information regarding licensure, reciprocity, and renewal processes.
Illinois Barber Association
Part of the American Barber Association, this Illinois group offers practical licensing information and Illinois-specific news.
Chicago Barbers Association
This online hub is a solid resource for those wanting to connect and network with Chicago-based barbers.